Positive Procrastination
Procrastination - the process of delaying or postponing something
But positive procrastination?! Was there ever such a thing?!
Well, perhaps there is! Here are a few pointers on how to find value in not rushing. The reality is that sometimes we place far too many things on our to-do list(s) and expect it all to be done by the end of the day - lest we feel guilty for leaving what can be done today for tomorrow - I know, I’ve been guilty of this.
But really, what’s the point in rushing things? Do things get done as they should when we’re rushing? I think not. Now this is hardly an excuse to get nothing done, on the contrary, it’s all about getting a few things done, properly - and not feeling guilty about what simply couldn’t be squished into 1 day.
Life is not about perfection, it’s about living.
So how do we train ourselves to re-think what’s doable and what’s not?
One, we have to know ourselves. We have to know what we can and cannot do given the different circumstances of our day/week. We have to be REAL with ourselves - only try to fit in what’s doable and spread things out throughout the week so as not to fall into the guilt trap at the end of the day - is it really worth it? Also knowing ourselves implies that we realise when we are actually procrastinating!
Two, we cannot compare ourselves to others. We have no idea what others actually get done - whatever they might say - and it really doesn’t matter. You’re living your life, not theirs. Know when comparison is healthy and it’s pushing you to be a better you and when it’s too much and getting you down, or even stopping you from living your life.
Three, make the most of your days. Everything is important in life - a little bit of work, play and rest. Try to fit a little bit of each into every day.
Four, the flip side of procrastination is that it allows us more time to reflect rather than demand action all the time. Balancing the time is what becomes key here, too much time reflecting (as with too much action) can lead to nowhere too. Balance - always. Learn to lean into tasks. Not everything needs a reaction.
Five, create calm spaces (for a calmer headspace). Organization and tidiness is very important for our minds to feel calm, even if we don’t realize how much busyness and damage a lot of clutter does to us subconsciously. Calm and clear spaces, clear your headspace - make your home a space you want to go to at the end of the day, not another chore. This will allow you to get into that feeling of calm with more ease even when you’re out and about and need that safety.
Six, clear and precise to-do lists. Re-write your lists so that they are very specific - be clear on what your actions are, and use keywords. Short and sweet. No clutter in your life, no clutter in your notes.
Seven, just start. The important thing is sometimes just to start, even if you start small and slow. The earlier you rise the more time you have to get things done, but also to take the time to do things. Also, try not to multitask, though it can come in handy (and sometimes it’s the only way to get things done in time) you’re dividing your attention and also always thinking about what you’re going to do next. Focus on one thing and when that’s done, move on. Be mindful of each task and sometimes things get done even better and quicker!
Stay tuned, I’ll be writing about the power of 3 in a post soon.
Much love